Description
This Santa’s Christmas Hot Chocolate recipe is a rich and creamy holiday treat perfect for cozy winter evenings. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, and sweetened condensed milk, it delivers velvety smooth chocolate flavor topped with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, and festive sprinkles for a delightful seasonal indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/4 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Toppings
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Crushed candy canes
- Mini marshmallows
- Holiday sprinkles (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk constantly to help the chocolate melt evenly.
- Heat and melt: Continue whisking until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth and steaming. Be careful not to let it boil to prevent scorching.
- Simmer gently: Reduce the heat to low and stir for another 2–3 minutes to ensure the hot chocolate is thoroughly heated and flavors meld together.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, and festive holiday sprinkles if desired.
- Enjoy immediately: Serve straight away to capture the best rich and creamy texture and the festive flavors at their peak.
Notes
- For a peppermint twist, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract before serving.
- To make a grown-up version, add a splash of peppermint schnapps or Irish cream to each mug.
- This hot chocolate can be kept warm for parties by placing it in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.
